Arts and culture reflect civilisation, values of local community

PAPAR: Celebrating the art and culture of every ethnic group in the state is imperative in inculcating unity and camaraderie among the multiracial community.

Chief Minister, Tan Sri Musa Haji Aman said that art and culture hold a special place in very community in spite of the changing time.

He said that the culture of an ethnic group reflects various aspects of its civilisation and the values held by the community.

“Therefore, I welcome the Persatuan Masyarakat Brunei Sabah’s (PMBS) efforts in organising this Pesta Gambus (a stringed musical instrument). This is in line with the government’s aspiration in instilling unity and harmony among the various races in Sabah,” he said when officiating the 18th Pesta Gambus here yesterday.

According to him, Pesta Gambus provides an opportunity for the people to get to know better the culture of the people of Brunei descent.

He said that the state and federal governments will continue to provide assistance to art practitioners in the state. “I would like to urge PMBS and other ethnic associations in Sabah to utilise all facilities and assistance provided by the government to preserve and develop their respective cultures,” he said.

Also present were Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Arifin Arif who is also PMBS president; Deputy Works Minister, Datuk Rosnah Abdul Rashid Shirlin; Infrastructure Development Assistant Minister, Datuk Ghulam Haidar Khan Bahadar; and Bongawan Assemblyman, Datuk Mohamad Alamin.

Source: New Sabah Times